Colombian skaters braced for bitter winds in Gangneung

GANGNEUNG, South Korea (Reuters) - Daytime temperatures in Gangneung have inched above freezing during the past few days but the two Colombian speed skaters competing in South Korea are now struggling to adapt to the buffeting winds sweeping over the picturesque coastal village.

The weather may be a far cry from what the skaters from Colombia’s tropical climes are used to, but it is a small price for them to pay for being at the Olympics.

“I’m excited,” Causil said. “It’s my first Olympics and it’s been my dream. I want to race really good, not just participate.

“I want to finish as high as I can and try to better my personal best.”

Gomez Quintero was a late call up for the Games and arrived in Korea without an official Colombian uniform, and the Dutch company that manufactures Colombia’s speed skating skin suits had to fly one out to her a few days ago.

The mass start final is on Feb. 24, the last day of action at the Oval, and the inline skater believes the competition will be the toughest she has ever faced.